A great start but ended in a disappointment
I started out being so captivated, and a bit bored honestly with the start, just seemed like any other story and got better after some epiodes, with huge anwsers. Then it was exicting and i was looking forward to watching it every single day, but after 25/27 episode, everything when straight down hill.Now i will say everything is perfect BUT the story, after then. The story just seems like it's rushed and gives you less and less anwsers to every problem. There is so many other ways it could have went and the huge, why is the female lead, wanting to do what she wants. Also the villan is straight up boring, sorry. I loved the starting one more, and the male lead never! gets a chance to redeem himself. Sorry for the rant but i loved this show at the start and pushed throu the starting episodes, because of the male leads character, how interesting it was and hearing everything he had and what was happening and ended up happening. Just made the last 4 episodes and a little befor, not fit the narrative that was going on already, and made me hate the story a bit, because it could become SO MUCH MORE!
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The story is actually rather intriguing
Its funny that the reviews so far are love/hate, as that is what this drama features, but if you consider the underlying premise, it's actually rather thought provoking as to the question of whether/when immortals intervene and whether/what the consequences are for mortals and the immortals. Much like A Moment But Forever, That said, the dialogue to get us to the deeper point of the story is really lacking but then perhaps it may be lost in translation into English?The way the story unfolds sets you up with 'what the heck?' and then eventually provides the context-which I suppose is for dramatic tension/get you to want to watch more, but it does happens a bit too frequently that the Haters are justified in saying the drama fails. There was also a 'what the heck' storyline, ex: why did the ML seek blind date/matchmaker--totally didn't add to the story.
That said, give it a try, if nothing else the eye candy of the cast and their costumes is quite pleasing. I find it more intriguing than the recently completed Legend of Zang Hai which commentors made Xiao Zhan walk on water (crack me up, he does do this in a romance scene!)
And, consider better angst dramas, see Immortal Samsara for xianxia, and Royal Nirvana for costume.
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This review may contain spoilers
The Drama Lives Up To Its Name!!
What do I think of the title?Previously, the drama was called Lament of the River Immortal. I kind of liked it because it sounded and looked nice. And then came Feud. It seemed odd at first but it ended up being the perfect title for this drama. 100% representation of the story 🤣
What do I think about the actors prior to watching this and my expectations?
Bai Lu is an amazing actress. I've watched a few of her dramas and I knew she can pull off strong roles. Zeng Shun Xi on the other hand, I've never watched any of his dramas at all so I went in blank about his acting. I'm glad I watched this drama as now I can look forward to his other dramas too.
Did I like the plot and why?
The plot might be obvious to some regarding the genre this is but the take on it was completely new for me. I liked how they focused on the Feud side of it as opposed to the more lovey dovey side. They highlighted that no communication can cause a lot of misunderstandings etc but even when you know the truth, you really might just want someone else to blame and take your emotions out on even if they may be innocent.
How was the acting?
I wasn't disappointed with the leads' acting. It was good. Sometimes you had to go watch scenes again when new information was revealed and when you did, you realise that 'oh wow so this was why he/she did that and had that expression'. I didn't feel like the acting was forced. I enjoyed it.
Did I like the music?
Okay so this department might be where more work could have been done. There is a particular background music I really like (when they get married in the mortal realm and he lifts her veil up - I don't know the name if it has one) and specific OSTS with one being Say To You by ZSX the lead. There were some scenes where I think the music didn't match but that didn't put me off.
The music can grow on you but I don't think all of the OSTs were to my liking.
Was the ending as I expected?
I have an issue with cdrama endings. They always tend to rush things at the end regardless of HE or SE. I was confused on whether I liked this ending or not. I still I am I guess but it was better than being left open ended. They had a HE but I hoped that somehow Shi An would make an appearance. The FL went back in time and warned her past self about certain things but that would create an alternate timeline where yes they would be with Shi An but the present FL and ML wouldn't. So it's bittersweet because although there was a reunion between the leads... it was just that. Just the leads. Not their son unfortunately. In reality, that means BJS the ML never got to meet his own son.
Overall, I liked this drama because it wasn't sugarcoated and gave you all the happy things. It gave you the sad things too. That's life. I loved the take on this. I loved the mind games. I loved the love-hate relationship between the leads (more so hate part came from FL actually).
What would I rate this?
I rated this 9 most of the time but a final rating would be 9.5 because everyone's story concluded to some level of my liking and understanding.
Should you watch this?
After reading all this including all of the spoilers, if you haven't watched it, should you? Well that's your choice. It wasn't some people's cup of tea but if you do start it, I'd recommend to get past episode 14/15 and it might pick up for you from there.
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Refreshing plot for a xianxia genre !!
Well, the first 4/5 episodes were lacking something..I dunno but I didn't enjoy the humor that much cuz I wanted the angst to start quickly, and yes when the show started to focus more on angst automatically it became so interesting and engaging..the best thing here is the plot twists and the fact that it's a multi-genre drama for me , it's a xianxia but also had many different elements ; comedy, suspense, mystery, romance ofc some slight horror moments ... overall this show isn't for everyone (not for weak people) but for strong people emotionally and for people who really will understand the background of this story.the actors and actresses gave a stellar performance especially with their facial expressions, the CGI is good but could have been even better the background songs are good aren't vibing for me but I love the OST so much...
Overall the story is so captivating and fresh ,the script and plot are solid ..they just could've do better with the production but still it's a good drama if you something to let your brain work harder hhh.
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It's more than just Love/hate relationship drama...
i'n not that good in writing reviews but i will just give my honest opinion...(With the storyline of their child unfolding, this has to be the darkest xianxia of all time for me!)
This drama requires patience because it's the type which gets better and better each episode, the plot is solid i was a bit doubtful about the direction cuz the director is a retired director who was rehired to do direct this drama, but i quite liked his work it's better than what i expected al.. the screenwriter also did a good job the script and plot are solid and genius cuz my brain cells all worked so hard during this period of time thinking what's going on? what will happen? what makes them hate each other and what's exactly causing this"feud" to the point where i feel tired now hahaha, but i can tell that the story is unique..It is not an ordinary love/hate drama , the idea is very profound!! There are debates and collisions between different viewpoints, and various characters have found their own "morality".There is not just a superficial misunderstanding it's a difference of the ML and FL's principles to life as an immortal and their responsibilities to the mortal world. Once you get beyond the first twist you understand why the initial episodes played out as they did, why the characters appeared superficial creating periods of boredom.. Plus, there are some genuinely funny scenes, mysterious scenes which gives the show extra points for me, i was so blown away by the philosophical arguments they had especially in ep 16 on the concept of cause-and-effect (" life philosophy" was well done tbh)...Bai Lu did a great job playing two different characters, a character who’s innocent and naive, but not in a silly or foolish way she strikes that balance really well and the strong and stubborn (i loved her playing a mother role i felt that it's a real mother who's suffering for her child)...Also Joseph, this is my first drama watching him and he did really well and i may check his other works, if you want to watch u need to have patience for slow starts having learned they really build a solid foundation for what’s to come. Can’t tell you how many times the story gets interesting only to realize u have missed something and have to rewatch early episodes to put it together. It’s refreshingly unique, not the usual tropes. The story only gets better and better it's not generic and predictable drama for sure it's full of plot twists. the ending is so satisfying for me, i was thinking how they will wrap it as a happy ending after all what happened ( that i didn't want it to be a HE) but this ending for me and makes sense...overall all i understand that not many people will enjoy this drama cuz not many people will understand the plot and the story, kuddos to the ones who really understood the story it's a bit complicated even me who really likes this type of stories couldn't understand the plot earlier, i was rewatching the eps to find more details..it's worth watching but u need to prepare yourself mentally and watch it with a clear mind, the CGI was good as well as the costumes that may not be appealing to some people but personally i prefer simple things, the background music felt off sometimes i agree with this opinion but the more i watch the more i get used to it as well as the dubbing..( in the end i recommend u to watch but if just u have a strong passion for this type of stories, a story which holds a deep meaning, hidden truths between the lines...)
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Not for weak people..
I think this drama is the best xianxia in past two years.A Yue did not choose to forgive Bai Jiusi easily because of his efforts, because what you call good for me may not be what I want. There are also the group portraits of immortals fighting against monsters and disciples of Jingyun Sect fighting against the enemy together. Xuanwei said before his death that immortals should not only think about becoming immortals, but also pay more attention to the land and people where they are. In the end, he sacrificed himself to relieve the drought. And going back to the past is only to relieve the cause and effect of another reincarnation and cannot affect this reincarnation. Because the cause and effect have been determined...
Feud really established why people cultivate immortals, how to cultivate immortals, and what immortals should do. It is no longer about how to choose between loving one person and loving the world, nor is it about the distinction between good and evil, and good and evil cannot co-exist. It is even more not that the world is in chaos because of hatred caused by love...
the plot was meant for the strong people who can really understand the deep meaning of the characters emotions, it was a great journey to follow this drama..
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This review may contain spoilers
FEUD
Between Realms: A Tale of Love, War, and RedemptionFeud reimagines the traditional fantasy romance with an emotionally layered narrative driven by a cycle of love, betrayal, and rebirth. At its core is the striking concept of “three marriages and three separations,” setting the stage for an intense love-hate dynamic that challenges fate itself.
A Love Shaped by Destiny
The story follows Li Qing Yue, an immortal favored by the Four Spirits, and Bai Jiu Si, the esteemed master of Dacheng. What begins as an ethereal bond between them unravels into painful misunderstanding, betrayal, and even death. But their tale doesn’t end there granted a second chance, they rise once more, not as lovers but as warriors, fighting side by side to protect the innocent against a looming threat. Their journey is one of atonement, rediscovery, and learning to trust through scars that never fully fade.
Performances
Bai Lu delivers a stunning dual-role performance, seamlessly transitioning between innocence and emotional complexity, earning wide praise from viewers. Joseph Zeng breaks away from the stoic xianxia male lead archetype with a portrayal that is both outwardly composed and internally conflicted, giving Bai Jiu Si layers of moral struggle and vulnerability.
Supporting actors Chen Xinhai, Liang Yongqi, Zhao Qing, Pan Youcheng, and Dong Chunhui—also bring notable depth to their roles, enriching the story’s emotional stakes and world-building.
Music That Carries the Heart of the Story
The soundtrack adds another layer of immersion, enhancing the emotional rhythm of each arc from soaring orchestral pieces to quieter, melancholic themes. The songs performed by Bai Lu and Joseph Zeng themselves stand out, tying the characters’ emotional highs and lows directly to the audience’s experience. I am in the minority i loved all the OST
Ending and Reception
While the ending sparked divided opinions, it stays true to the world and choices the story built up. It may not deliver a conventionally neat resolution, but it makes sense within the arc of pain, healing, and consequence. The finale reflects the drama’s commitment to emotional realism rather than fantasy wish-fulfillment.
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Where is my chest pain inducing angst?
Bai Lu and Joseph Zeng's acting was great. Everything else was questionable. They wasted so much time on trying to throw plot twists at the viewers that they forgot they still had characters and a story to develop. This was very underwhelming and it's a shame because two of my favorite actors were the main leads.I finished the show in the morning, but I had no idea what to rate it. I decided to settle on a 6/10 because Bai Lu and Joseph Zeng did carry this on their backs. I had no issues with their acting, just with their characters in general and the issues the plot was centered around. Honestly, some things were completely unnecessary and the energy wasted on those things could have been better used on other parts of the story which would have been more interesting. All in all, it just made the plot weaker than it already was and never allowed the story to reach its full potential. I was completely detached from the characters and did not care for their fates. I finished it because I liked both main leads and had already watched too much. So, "I might as well finish it".
Feud, where was my tragedy, my angst, my pain? Xiao Jing Shan did give me a good hearty cackles in those last two episodes though. Whether those scenes were actually meant to be funny is another question. But considering the lack of circus music and silly effects, I’m guessing they were meant to be serious. It wasn’t that deep, though. lol
A very generous 6/10
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This review may contain spoilers
Lots to love and hate about this drama
The twist, windy, curveball filled plot follows two characters who seem to love and hate each other with equal passion yet the plot only starts to make any sense once the FL (Hua Ru Yue, AKA the Grandmaster of the Yinlian Sect AKA immortal goddess Siling) steps out from behind her poor quality junior cultivator disguise (Li Qing Yue) and the viewer realises they’ve met before and that there is a huge amount of baggage between them.Her love interest / arch nemesis Bai Juisi ( AKA Immortal Lord of Dacheng) knows who she is even disguised as the helpless yet adorably naive Li Qing Yue and eventually forces her to admit who she really is. Once the truth is out, this sets the storyline for several of the characters who love or hate her depending on how they first met her, mostly these views never change.
The supporting actors are brilliant and there are some fantastic and often funny one liners from them (especially in the beginning when half of the Yinlian Sect head honchos can’t recall Bai Lu’s character and even her master has almost no idea who she is!).
What to love: phenomenal acting from every member of the cast, beautiful costumes with great production values and excellent choreographed fight scenes. The emotions that the characters experience are so raw, honest and believable. There is excellent attention to detail in terms of what supporting cast are up to when the main characters in a scene are doing their thing. For example, ML turns into a petulant child that can be seen kicking furniture with boredom as the ‘grown ups’ discuss how to deal with the baddie!
What to get frustrated about: The story is told piece meal, flitting back and forth between present day and flashbacks which keeps the viewer guessing though at times this does tend to confuse somewhat until more of the puzzle pieces emerge. Additionally, although everything turns out well in the end the final scenes are a little confusing and the viewer has to rack their brains to understand the refences made by Hua Ru Yue and put them into context. Also at the end the baddie gets a complete change of fate and therefore has no need to turn evil but this absolute 180 doesn’t make sense as there should have been some sort of butterfly effect and there isn’t..
Overall a great watch and the music is wonderful. Would I watch it again? Absolutely, even if just for Joseph Zeng’ puppy dog eyes 😍
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Feud – A Love Forged on the Edge of Hatred
🔹 What happens when love is so scarred by grief that it’s hard to tell if it’s still love at all?📕Overview
🔹 40 episodes, xianxia romance with tragic undertones
🔹 Adapted from Lament of the River Immortal
🔹 Bai Lu plays Hua Ruyue, an immortal who carries both love and unbearable loss
🔹 Zeng Shunxi plays Bai Jiusi, a man bound by duty who hides his feelings too often
🔹 The story begins with a romance that looks like a fairytale but hides a painful past
🌸 How It Felt Watching
🔹 At first, it felt like a sweet romance, but something was unsettled underneath
🔹 When Hua Ruyue’s true identity was revealed, my heart sank, and the whole story shifted
🔹 It turned heavier and more complex, full of longing, anger, and forgiveness
🔹 Watching them fight, love, and hurt each other made me feel torn between sorrow and hope
🔹 The themes of love, betrayal, healing, and destiny carried me through to the end
✨ Cast & Acting
🔹 Bai Lu as Hua Ruyue: She gave the character both tenderness and rage, and I felt every moment of her pain
🔹 Zeng Shunxi as Bai Jiusi: His restraint worked well; his love often felt strongest when unspoken
🔹 The supporting cast, especially Fan Linger, added warmth and made even the side characters feel alive
🎵 OST
🔹 Lin Jiang Xian (临江仙) by Bai Lu
🔹 Say to You (对你说) by Zeng Shun Xi
🔹 Reach for the Stars (摘星) by Shin
🔹 Beautiful Scenery (风月) by Zhang Yuan
🔹 Karma (因果) by Lu Hu
✏️ I like it when the leads sing for the soundtrack because it feels more personal and tied to the story
🎞️ Production Style
🔹 The way it was filmed felt soft and moody, which fit the emotions
🔹 Costumes stood out with detailed designs and elegant colors that matched each character’s journey
🔹 The CGI wasn’t flashy, but it didn’t distract from the emotions, which mattered more to me
☕ Tea Notes
🔹 What stayed with me most was how the story was less about victory and more about finding peace after pain
🔹 For me, it’s not one I’d rewatch, but I’m glad I experienced it once
☕ SpillTheDramaTea’s Rating: 8/10 — a thoughtful brew, heartfelt even with its flaws
✏️As SpillTheDramaTea, this one felt like watching love stumble, break, and still reach for the light. It stayed with me after the final scene.
✨ Which moment broke you the most, and which gave you hope again?
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Great Plot . Great ML/FL . Not to be missed!
Not a fan of Xianxia actually, At first, I watch because of Bai Lu and Joseph Zeng, but once I started EP 1, it draws me in. The story alone is already strong enough . What more with great ML and FL for this drama.I totally enjoy the story progression and how the plot unfolds with unexpected plot. That is what truly make me stick to the end. If you like something unexpected with a strong story line, please try watching this drama. You are in it for a treat for sure. It's not just eye candy for having the ML and FL alone. Finally, a XianXia i can connect to and like it after so long.
Give it a good watch ya!
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